Superintendent Newsletter

As we enter November, I am reminded of the many ways our MCSD community comes together to celebrate, learn, and support one another. This month has already provided meaningful opportunities to recognize our shared history, honor those who have served our country, and strengthen the connections that make our school communities so special.

We were honored to participate in Merced's Veterans Day Parade, where our Fremont Honor Choir proudly performed patriotic songs in recognition of the brave men and women who have served our country. We also celebrated our second annual Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day, bringing students and staff together to reflect on the importance of courage, kindness, inclusion, and standing up for what is right. These moments remind us that building strong relationships and creating welcoming, supportive environments for every student are responsibilities we share.

As we continue our work across the District, our commitment to Building Relationships, Student Safety & Wellbeing, and Early & Sustained Literacy remains at the heart of everything we do. Whether we are creating safe and supportive spaces where students feel they belong, strengthening partnerships with families and our community, or providing meaningful learning experiences that help students grow as readers and learners, each effort contributes to a brighter future for our students.

November also gives us an opportunity to slow down and reflect on the people, experiences, and opportunities for which we are grateful. I am especially thankful for our dedicated employees, supportive families, community partners, and, most importantly, our students, who inspire our work each day.

As we approach Thanksgiving break, I hope each of you has an opportunity to enjoy meaningful time with family and friends, create lasting memories, and find moments to rest and recharge. Thank you for the care, commitment, and kindness you bring to our MCSD community.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, joyful, and happy Thanksgiving!

With gratitude,

Warmly,

Mrs. Julianna Stocking
Superintendent
Merced City School District

Strong readers are built one skill at a time!

Through SIPPS (Systematic Instruction in Phonological Awareness, Phonics, and Sight Words), MCSD students strengthen the foundational reading skills that support decoding, fluency, and reading confidence.

Take a look inside a Mrs. Rodriguez's third-grade classroom to see how intentional instruction and daily practice help students grow as readers.

At MCSD, we're committed to building strong literacy foundations and supporting every student on their journey to becoming a confident reader.

We invite staff, families, and community members to inspect our proposed new K–8 Mathematics Curriculum.

• In-Person Review: Stop by the MCSD Operations Center (2111 Wardrobe Avenue) between 7:30 AM and 4:30 PM. The review opened on October 26 and will remain open through December 1, 2026.

• Online Review: You can also review materials digitally and provide feedback through our online Google Form. Look out for details via ParentSquare and our social media channels.

• Next Steps: Public input will be compiled prior to presenting the curriculum to the Board of Education for final approval on December 15, 2026.

• Click HERE for more information or to provide your input online.

• Preschool enrollment has reached 447 students, driven by an influx of pre-applications following our updated eligibility guidelines.

• Expanded Access: Families residing or working within MCSD boundaries can now enroll children in our preschool program regardless of household income.
• Click HERE to enroll today or call 209-385-6619 for more information.

• Seven school sites are actively planning or running Hmong Language and Culture activities. Rivera Elementary kicked off its program in September and has expanded offerings to include Lao dance classes.

Did you know??....

MCSD is on social media. Come hang out with us daily as we share exciting photos, videos, and information about current and upcoming events. If you are a parent, you might just see your little one get featured!

Instagram & Facebook: @MercedCitySchoolDistrict